The Difference Between Type 1 And Type 2 Diabetes

                                                                                         

Both types of diabetes have some similar symptoms. Like being really thirsty, tired and going to urinate frequently. However with Type 1 diabetes you will loose weight despite the fact you have a very good appetite and will become pale. High blood sugars from Type 1 diabetes can lead to ketoacidosis and result in death if not recognized and treated by a doctor soon. A diabetic with either high or low blood sugars can go into a diabetic coma. With Type 2 diabetes one will usually gain weight.

Type 1 must always be treated with insulin, as in most cases the pancreas no longer produces insulin. Type 2 however can be managed by a diet, exercise and watching what you eat. If that does not help then the doctor will usually prescibe a pill to help lower the blood sugars.

Some say one type is worse than the other and can cause more problems later in life. In my opinion I would think Type 1 diabetes would be more likely to cause future problems. The reason I feel this way is because Type 1 diabetes can come on at a very young age and thus Type 1 diabetics usually live with it for a long time. Both types can cause future problems if not managed well. The higher the blood sugars the greater ones chances are of having future problems.

I personally have been a Type 1 diabetic since age eleven. My adoptive mom was a Type 2 diabetic. My adoptive mom suffered many complications in her later 60's as a result of diabetes. She had problems with her eye sight, kidney failure, heart problems and lastly a blister on her heel that would heal and had to have her foot amputated.. Also my birth family tells me that my great grandfather also had Type 1 diabetes and also had to have his legs amputated.

However my grandmother had Type 2 diabetes and lived till her upper 80's and died of breast cancer. It varies from one person to another and also as to how well you manage your diabetes.

Fruits, vegetables and high fiber foods are really good for diabetics whether Type 1 or Type 2. No matter which Type you have listen to the advice of your doctor and eat healthy and exercise. Two great ways to control both Types of diabetes.

By Donna Shepard
Copyrighted 2008

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